It is not surprising that audiences have a particular interest in films based on real events. This is evident in the frequent success of biopics of notable people.
Among these productions, those that portray the lives of renowned music stars stand out. Given this scenario, we list the 10 best biopics that explore the trajectories of musical artists.
Biopics of famous musicians
Johnny and June (2005)
Directed by James Mangold, this film chronicles the life of country music legend Johnny Cash, covering the start of his career, his rise, and his drug addiction. The film focuses primarily on his relationship with fellow iconic singer June Carter.
Johnny Cash is played by Joaquin Phoenix, while Reese Witherspoon plays June Carter. Both were praised for their performances, and Witherspoon won the Academy Award for Best Actress for this role.
available for Star+ subscribers.
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Straight Outta Compton: The Story of the NWA (2015)
This biopic chronicles the beginnings, rise, and demise of the seminal gangsta rap group NWA. The film explores his beginnings in the city of Compton, the sensational success that challenged the conventions of the time and the internal conflicts of the group. The work also addresses police brutality and racial tensions of the period.
In the cast, the group members are played by O’Shea Jackson Jr. (who plays his real-life father, Ice Cube), Corey Hawkins (Dr. Dre), Jason Mitchell (Eazy-E), Neil Brown Jr. ( DJ Yella) and Aldis Hodge (MC Ren). Paul Giamatti plays businessman Jerry Heller. The film is directed by F. Gary Gray.
available for Amazon Prime Video subscribers.
The Party Never Ends (2002)
This British comedy is a biopic that follows the Manchester music scene between 1976 and 1992, with a special focus on the rise of businessman Tony Wilson’s Factory Records record label.
Played by Steve Coogan, Wilson is the protagonist. The film covers much of his career, featuring some of Manchester’s major bands along the way, most notably Joy Division, New Order and Happy Mondays. The film is directed by Michael Winterbottom.
available for premium (MGM) subscription to Amazon Prime Video.
Cazuza – Time Doesn’t Stop (2004)
National representative in the list, this biopic directed by Sandra Werneck and Walter Carvalho tells the story of Cazuza, one of the most beloved Brazilian singers and composers. The actor Daniel de Oliveira played Cazuza and was highly appreciated for his performance, the awards he won and the great national recognition.
The plot tells the intense life of Cazuza, from his success as the singer of Barão Vermelho, to his solo career, to his discovery of HIV positivity and his death in 1990.
available for Amazon Prime Video and Paramount+ subscribers.
The Doors – The Movie (1991)
Oliver Stone directed this film which tells the story of the American psychedelic rock band The Doors.
One of the highlights of the work is Val Kilmer’s acclaimed performance as singer and generational icon, Jim Morrison. The cast also includes Meg Ryan, Kyle MacLachlan, Frank Whaley and Kevin Dillon.
available for Amazon Prime Video subscribers.
Bird (1988)
One of the most critically acclaimed films in Clint Eastwood’s filmography as a director, “Bird” centers on the life of legendary jazz saxophonist Charlie Parker. Despite positive reception, the film was a commercial failure.
The story permeates and mixes moments in the life of Charlie “Bird” Parker, who died prematurely at the age of 34. Forest Whitaker plays Charlie Parker and received acclaim for his portrayal, winning Best Actor at the Cannes Film Festival in 1988. Actress Diane Venora plays “Bird’s” wife, Chan Parker.
available to rent on Apple TV. Available for purchase on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.
I’m Not There (2007)
The experimental biopic “I’m Not There” features several actors portraying different aspects of the personality of legendary singer and songwriter Bob Dylan.
Christian Bale, Cate Blanchett, Marcus Carl Franklin, Richard Gere, Heath Ledger and Ben Whishaw all play Dylan in different ways. The film was directed by Todd Haynes.
available to watch for free on Pluto TV.
Rocketman (2019)
Taron Egerton plays Elton John in this biopic that chronicles a talented but shy pianist’s journey to international fame as a pop music icon.
The plot also highlights the successful musical collaboration with Bernie Taupin, played by Jamie Bell.
available for Netflix, Telecinema and Star+ subscribers.
Elvis (2022)
With a fast-paced and dynamic approach, this visually charged film tells the story of Elvis Presley and his relationship with his manager, Colonel Tom Parker.
The film stars Austin Butler as Elvis and Tom Hanks as Colonel Parker.
available to HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video subscribers.
Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)
Focusing on the life and career of the lead singer of the British band Queen, Freddie Mercury, “Bohemian Rhapsody” is directed by Bryan Singer. Actor Rami Malek plays Mercury and received the Oscar for Best Actor for his portrayal of him.
The plot follows Mercury’s journey from the formation of Queen to his famous performance at Live Aid in 1985.
available for Star+ subscribers.
The 10 Best Musician Biopics to Watch Online appeared first on Olhar Digital.
Source: Olhar Digital
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
